Ypsilanti Community Schools Educator Wins $500 Grant from National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year Program

September 26, 2024 –Ypsilanti, MI– Erickson Elementary School special education social worker Jennifer Dear has been awarded a $500 Back to School Supply Grant from National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year Program. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, this initiative acknowledges the challenges educators face in providing essential supplies for their students. The Back to School Supply Grants aim to support K-12 educators across the nation, ensuring they can kick off the school year on a positive note.

Dear is deeply committed to providing mental health access to families who may lack resources or knowledge to support their students. Her passion lies in empowering youth to navigate mental health challenges, fostering resilience, and encouraging them to uplift others. Through compassionate guidance and support, she strives to create a nurturing environment where all students can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Currently, Dear operates from a makeshift "office" in the school's laundry room, but she aspires to create a more inviting and supportive space for her students. Additionally, Dear seeks carefully selected therapeutic toys, such as diverse figurines and a miniature schoolhouse, to enhance her play therapy interventions, enabling students to express themselves and work through their challenges in a supportive environment.

“This grant will have a profound impact on students, many of whom do not experience consistency, quality toys or materials, or clean spaces in their daily lives. Creating a therapeutic environment with high-quality materials will provide them with a sense of stability and value,” said Dear. “Many students have shared that they do not have toys at home, making the availability of therapeutic toys in my office even more significant. This environment will not only enhance their engagement and willingness to explore their emotions but also provide a safe and nurturing space that affirms their worth and potential.”

About LifeChanger of the Year

Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Seventeen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2024-2025 school year.

Winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2025. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must

• Make a positive impact on the lives of students
• Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride
• Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
• Possess a proven record of professional excellence
• Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
• Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards

To view the LifeChanger of the Year website, or to nominate someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com. For more information contact,

Caitlin Sabourin
LifeChanger of the Year Communications Consultant
csabourin@strykermunleygroup.com

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